April 8, 2026
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Recent industry insights have revealed that during Quarter 3, the Department did not conduct an invitation round for visa 189 / 491 (Family stream)— not due to a slowdown, but because there were already sufficient applications on hand to continue processing. The focus of the upcoming 189 invitation round will be crucial for potential applicants.
While this information has not been publicly released, it has been shared within professional circles, including Registered Migration Agents and migration lawyers.
This 189 invitation round is anticipated to address the backlog of applications and provide new opportunities.
At first glance, this might seem like a pause in activity. In reality, it tells a very different story.
The absence of an invitation round is not a sign that the migration program is slowing down. If anything, it highlights the opposite.
The Department appears to be working through an already substantial pool of submitted Expressions of Interest and applications. This suggests that demand remains high and that the system is currently operating under capacity and prioritisation constraints, rather than a lack of candidates.
For applicants, this is an important distinction.
It means that the challenge is no longer simply meeting eligibility criteria, it is about competing within an increasingly crowded and selective system.
For many candidates, invitation rounds are seen as key milestones. However, this update reinforces a reality we have been observing for some time: timelines are becoming less predictable.
The fact that a round can be skipped entirely indicates that:
As a result, relying solely on “waiting for the next round” is no longer a reliable strategy.
Applicants who are currently in the pool should be aware that their chances are influenced not just by eligibility, but by how competitive their profile is compared to others already in the system.
We have discussed 189 and 491 Visas here
Alongside this update, there are indications that an additional invitation round for visa 189/491 (Family Sponsored) may take place in May 2026.
If confirmed, this could provide an opportunity for candidates who have been waiting through a quieter period. However, it should not be interpreted as a guaranteed outcome or a sudden easing of competition.
For applicants, this creates a narrow window to reassess and strengthen their position before the next potential round.
One of the most important takeaways from this update is that migration outcomes are becoming less about timing and more about strategy.
In a system where invitation rounds can be skipped and processing is influenced by internal capacity, applicants who take a passive approach are increasingly disadvantaged.
A strong application today requires:
Without these elements, even eligible candidates may remain in the pool for extended periods.
This is a reminder that being “in the system” is no longer enough. The focus needs to shift towards positioning, competitiveness, and informed decision-making.
With a potential additional round expected in May 2026, now is the time to reassess your strategy and ensure that your application is not just eligible — but genuinely competitive.
Book a consultation with one of our agents to assess your profile and making sure you are well positioned for this last upcoming 189 invitation round.
Disclaimer: This article is based on industry insights shared with migration professionals and has not been publicly released by the Department of Home Affairs. It is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute migration advice.
